Mangaluru: A disaster management drill was successfully conducted at DKZP Government High School, Sujeer, Pudu, on April 22, 2026, with the aim of creating awareness and preparedness among students and the local community.
The programme was organised by Father Muller Nursing College Thumbay in association with the National Service Scheme (NSS), Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority, Mangalore University (Chair in Christianity), and Grama Panchayat Pudu.
Inauguration and dignitaries
The event commenced at 10:00 AM with a prayer and the lighting of the traditional lamp in the presence of dignitaries, including Rev. Fr. Sylvester Vincent Lobo, Administrator of Father Muller Nursing College Thumbay; Dr. Reena Wilma Frank, Principal; Dr. George Sunil D’Souza, Head of Chair in Christianity; Mr. Umar Faruk, School Development President; Mrs. Ruksana Banu, Panchayat President; and Mr. Praveen K. N., Fire Station Officer.
Dr. Edveena Philip Monis welcomed the gathering. The programme was compered by Ms. Sneha and Ms. Lina Joshi, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Richelle Pinto.
Focus on disaster awareness and preparedness
In his inaugural address, Rev. Fr. Sylvester Vincent Lobo emphasised the growing importance of disaster preparedness and awareness in today’s context.
Dr. George Sunil D’Souza highlighted the importance of emotional management during disasters. He explained that fear, panic, and confusion are common during emergencies and stressed the need to remain calm, think clearly, and support one another to reduce the impact of disasters.
Fire safety awareness and practical training
Mr. Praveen K. N., Fire Station Officer, provided detailed insights into the role of the fire department in handling emergencies such as fire accidents, road incidents, and rescue operations. He explained the use of modern equipment and the importance of quick response during crises.
Participants were educated on common causes of fire, preventive measures, and safety protocols to be followed during fire emergencies. Practical guidance on the use of fire extinguishers and safe response techniques was also provided, making the session highly informative.
Mock drill enhances practical understanding
A mock drill was conducted by a team from the Fire Station, Pandeshwar, including Mr. Praveen, Mr. Harish K. T., Mr. Sathish Kumar, Mr. Charan Patagar, Mr. Janty Chouhan, and Mr. Dharma M.
During the drill, participants were introduced to different types of fire extinguishers and their specific uses for various classes of fire. The team demonstrated effective techniques for controlling fires and responding safely during emergencies.
The hands-on training helped participants gain practical knowledge and boosted their confidence in handling real-life emergency situations.
Active participation from community
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 100 participants, including ASHA workers, auto drivers, Panchayat representatives, local residents, and teaching and non-teaching staff of Father Muller Nursing College Thumbay and DKZP Government High School, Sujeer.
The programme was organised under the leadership of Dr. Edveena Philip Monis, Head of the Department of Community Health Nursing, along with Mrs. Ambily V. Vijaykumar, Ms. Yashashwini, and Mr. Royston Dsilva.
Promoting community safety and resilience
The disaster management drill served as an important initiative to promote safety awareness and preparedness at the grassroots level. It reinforced the importance of community participation in disaster response and risk reduction.
The programme concluded with the National Anthem, leaving participants better equipped to handle emergencies with confidence and responsibility.